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💰 Who Pays Closing Costs? The Real Answer (From Your Realtor)

Written by Kimberly Smith - Your trusted Las Vegas Real Estate Queen



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You’ve found the perfect home, negotiated the price, and you're ready to celebrate—until someone drops the phrase: "closing costs."And suddenly, you're asking…

“Wait...who actually pays for that?”

Let’s break it down—clearly, confidently, and with The Real Estate Queen of Las Vegas by your side.


🧾 First, What Are Closing Costs?

Closing costs are the fees and expenses due at the time the home sale is finalized. They typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s price and can include:

  • Title insurance

  • Escrow fees

  • Appraisal

  • Lender fees

  • Transfer taxes

  • Home warranty

  • HOA dues (prorated)

  • And more


🤔 So...Who Pays for What?

Here’s where it gets real: it depends on the deal—and the market.


In general:

🏡 Buyers usually pay for:

  • Loan origination and lender fees

  • Appraisal

  • Credit report

  • Home inspection

  • Title insurance (buyer side)

  • Escrow fees (shared or buyer side, depending on state)

  • Buyers Agent Commission (If sellers do not pay)


🏠 Sellers usually pay for:

  • Real estate commissions (Seller may/may not pay Buyers Agent Commission)

  • Title insurance (seller side)

  • Transfer taxes

  • Escrow fees (shared)

  • Outstanding HOA dues

  • Repairs or credits negotiated after inspection

  • Sewer or Trash Fees (will be prorated)


💼 But It’s Negotiable—And Strategic

Closing costs are flexible during negotiation. In a buyer’s market, you might ask the seller to cover part (or all) of your costs. In a seller’s market, you may need to absorb more to stay competitive.

👑 Queen’s Tip: I’ve helped buyers get seller credits that cover thousands—and sellers protect their bottom line without overpaying on closing day. Strategy isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s deal-by-deal.

📍 Local Truth: What Happens in Las Vegas?

In Las Vegas, many deals follow this norm:

  • Escrow fees are often split

  • Each party covers its own title insurance

  • Sellers usually cover transfer taxes

  • Buyers cover lender fees, appraisal and for inspections

But every contract is different—and that's why you need a Realtor who knows how to play it smart.


🔍 Bonus: What’s a Seller Credit?

If a buyer needs help with closing costs, we can structure the deal to include a seller credit—a portion of the home price that is redirected to cover the fees. This keeps cash in the buyer’s pocket without changing the seller’s net (when priced right).

👑 Queen’s Tip: Seller credits can help first-time buyers close smoothly without wiping out their savings.

🎯 Final Thought: Don’t Guess—Get a Strategy

You won’t be left guessing when I’m your agent. Whether you’re buying or selling, I’ll show you how to negotiate, structure, and protect your money through closing—without surprises.



👑 About Kimberly Smith. Kimberly Smith is a top Las Vegas Realtor known for her sharp market insight, strategic approach, and commitment to helping clients move smart—whether buying, selling, or just exploring what’s next. She’s not just a local expert—she’s The Real Estate Queen of Las Vegas.

📞 Connect with Kimberly:📍 Serving Greater Las Vegas | 🏡 Luxury + Residential

📲 (702) 291-7098

🌐www.realestatequeenlasvegas

📱 Follow on Instagram: realestatequeenoflasvegas


 
 
 

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